From Vision to Association
The vision takes shape, group purchasing begins and NGCOA Canada is formally established with 11 founding members.
Built by Operators. Strengthened by Community.
For more than three decades, friendship, shared purpose and a belief in working together have helped NGCOA Canada grow from a local idea into a trusted national voice for golf course operators.
NGCOA Canada Today
National in Reach. Member-Led at Heart.
Headquartered in Ottawa, NGCOA Canada reaches across the country through eight regional chapters. Operators from each region help shape the Association through representation on the NGCOA Canada Board of Directors.
Our Shared Purpose A not-for-profit trade association, owned and governed by its membership, providing business support and one united voice for Canada’s golf course industry.
Looking Ahead
A Strong Foundation for the Future
Under the leadership of CEO Nathalie Lavallée, NGCOA Canada continues to build on more than three decades of growth while evolving to meet the changing needs of Canadian golf course operators.
The Association’s strategic priorities focus on delivering greater member value, leading government advocacy, providing industry-leading business solutions and strengthening the Canadian golf industry.
Membership & Member Value
Growing a strong national membership while continually increasing the value delivered to Canadian golf course operators.
Government Advocacy
Leading advocacy on the government issues that affect golf facilities and the broader Canadian golf industry.
Business Solutions
Delivering industry-leading programs, resources and solutions that support stronger golf course businesses.
Canadian Golf Industry
Strengthening the industry through leadership, collaboration, research and a united national voice.
Our History Timeline
From a Local Vision to Canada’s Leading Voice for Golf Course Operators
Sharing Industry Knowledge
Golf Business Canada magazine launches as a dedicated business publication for Canadian golf course operators.
Expanding Nationally
National chapter integration continues and the Golf Business Canada Conference & Trade Show launches.
Leading Through Crisis
NGCOA Canada provides advocacy, guidance and critical operator support throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
A New Chapter
The NGCOA Canada Foundation receives charitable status, Nathalie Lavallée becomes CEO and membership reaches a record 1,488.
Where It Began
A Shared Idea With National Potential
The vision began taking shape in 1991 when Ottawa-area golf course owner Mark Seabrook began exploring the idea of creating an owners’ group similar to one operating in the United States.
Working with Jeff Calderwood, who would go on to serve as NGCOA Canada’s CEO for more than 30 years, and a small group of local golf course owners, the idea grew around a simple belief: golf course operators would be stronger by sharing information, maintaining open lines of communication and working together.
Collective purchasing quickly became part of that vision. Group purchasing began in 1992, giving participating operators greater purchasing power and opportunities to negotiate stronger supplier pricing and discounts.
In 1993, NGCOA Canada was formally established with 11 founding members.
Turns out they were right.
